Work Permits for Asylum Seekers—Some Good News

The new Administration has raised anxieties in immigrant and asylum seeker communities. In part, this is because of President Trump’s rhetoric (and rhetorical style) during the election. And in part, it’s because we just don’t know what to expect from a Trump Administration. Rumors have been flying: Will there be some sort of Muslim ban? Will the President repeal DACA? Or will he (and Congress) create a permanent legalization for DACA recipients? Mr. Trump will be issuing some executive orders later today banning Syrian and other refugees from coming to the U.S., and restricting visas for people from certain Middle Eastern countries. How this will all play out, we shall see.

Filling gaps is a good thing.

But amidst the uncertainty, there is some good news related to work permits—or Employment Authorization Documents (“EADs”)—for asylum seekers.

First, last fall, the government started issuing two-year EADs instead of one-year EADs to people with pending asylum cases. This was a helpful development. It saves money since applicants now only have to apply for a new card every other year. It also makes it easier to obtain and retain employment, since employers feel more confident hiring people who have a longer period of authorized employment. In addition, many states issue driver’s licenses that correspond to the dates on the EAD, so a two-year card means a two-year license. All this helps ease the wait for people seeking asylum.

Second, last week the government issued new (and long anticipated) regulations “to help prevent gaps in employment authorization”:

DHS is providing for the automatic extension of expiring EADs (and underlying employment authorization, if applicable) for up to 180 days with respect to individuals who are seeking renewal of their EADs (and, if applicable, employment authorization) based on the same employment authorization categories under which they were granted.

This means that when you file to renew your EAD, your card will be automatically extended for 180 days once you receive the receipt (it usually takes three or four weeks to get the receipt). This is an important development, since USCIS has been taking months to process EAD renewals, and people were losing their jobs and driver’s licenses while they waited for their new EADs.

The automatic EAD extensions apply to refugees, people with asylum, and people who have pending asylum or withholding of removal cases, among others. You can see the new regulations here (see page 82491, the second to last page of the PDF) and here (page 82455, footnote 98, which lists the categories of people eligible for the automatic EAD extension).

Also, remember that you can apply for a new EAD up to 120 days before the old card expires. Even with the most recent change, it is still a good idea to apply early for your new card, so you receive the replacement EAD as soon as possible.

And here’s one last tip for today. If you cannot afford to pay for the new EAD (fees recently went up), you can request a fee waiver from USCIS, which—if granted—allows you to obtain a new EAD without paying the fee. To apply for a fee waiver, use form I-912, available here.

I have written many times about the affirmative asylum backlog. It has been a real disaster for asylum seekers—especially those separated from their family members. The recent changes to the EAD process, during the waning days of the Obama Administration, have at least made one aspect of the wait easier, and for that, we can be thankful.

[Update 03/27/17: USCIS has published a helpful summary of the categories eligible for the automatic extension here. They also created a useful Fact Sheet, available here.]

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1,247 comments

  1. Hi Jason,
    Can I apply to convert my foreign drivers licence to my current states driver’s licence before the 150 days rule? Its been 6o days since i sent in my application.

    Reply
    • You might be able to do that if you are still in lawful status (some status other than asylum pending). You have to check with your state DMV. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  2. Good Morning Jason. Can I apply for the EAD before the 150 day rule? Asylum application receipt dated on 1/2/18 and Finger print was done on 1/24/18.
    Thanks dear Jason

    Reply
    • Not based on asylum pending. If you send the application early, USCIS will reject it, which will take a month or more, and so it will actually slow down the whole process. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  3. Hi Jason, i just recieved my form I797 and it says my ead card will b sent seperately.pls i have couple of questions.
    1. When is the card likely to arrive?
    2.when it comes and i take it to social security how long does it take?
    3.what does class C08 mean.

    Reply
    • 1 – Hopefully within a short time – days or weeks. 2 – The new I-765 allows you to get the SS card automatically, but if you did not do that, you have to get the card from Social Security. I think it is fast – a day, maybe a couple days. 3 – It means your EAD is based on a pending asylum case. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  4. It would be very useful, everyone who got the EAD, detail here in this wonderful blog, documents needed to help those who do not have a lawyer. Like me, I was very focused on what to do because of this blog. In the comment below, I have detailed the documentation that I have sent for the EAD application. In my case was delayed, due to the fact that I did not send along with the I-765 form, a photo and a copy of my passport, I did not know that need. Congratulations on helping people !! God bless you

    Reply
    • Unfortunately, sometimes different cases need different documents. That is why I do not give such specific advice here. For EADs, it is often possible to find a non-profit that can help, as it is a relatively easy application. Otherwise, the only thing to do is read the instructions carefully and do your best. If you forget to send something, in most cases it is not a big problem. USCIS will tell you what you need and then you can send it. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  5. Hi Jason, i applied for asylum in June with my kids, i got acknowledgement and fingerprint within 2weeks.150days passed and i applied for EAD nov 3 after 30days am yet to hear from them. Meanwhile i was also sent a notice and on it i have eligibility A05.i am yet to recieve the ead i sent a reminder which was also acknowledged but am yet to get the card.

    Reply
    • You should probably have the EAD receipt by now. First time EADs can take 3 or 4 months, so if you have the receipt, you should be fine. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Yes i have the reciept.thank you

        Reply
  6. Good Morning!!
    I had sent USCIS to EAD, if 1 month and 15 days had passed and I received a letter asking for evidence, that is, I had sent the form I-765, together with the copy of my receipt of asylum seeker, copy of my biometrics, but they told me that I was missing evidence on my request … They asked me for a passport photo, and a copy of my passport from my country of origin …
    For those who are sending the application of the EAD for the first time, it is good to send the following documents
    Copy of passport
    A passport photo
    Form I-765
    Copy of Biometrics.
    Copy of received from the asylum request.

    Reply
    • Thank you. Other documents may also be required, so you have to read the instructions to form I-765, available at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  7. Hello good Morning!!
    Since 1 month and 15 days ago that I applied for EAD for the first time, should I take any action to call or should I wait? Taking into consideration that I follow a list where Protocol above and below were given the answers, my number already goes without movement. Thanks

    Reply
    • If you got the receipt, you should be fine. Some people get their EADs in 30 days, but we often see people wait 3 or 4 months. If you are concerned, you can call USCIS – their number can be found at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Good Morning!!
        I had sent USCIS to EAD, if 1 month and 15 days had passed and I received a letter asking for evidence, that is, I had sent the form I-765, together with the copy of my receipt of asylum seeker, copy of my biometrics, but they told me that I was missing evidence on my request … They asked me for a passport photo, and a copy of my passport from my country of origin …Thanks

        Reply
  8. Hi Jason
    I applied for my renewal of work permit on June 13 2017. I received a receipt 5 days later. Then there was quietness for 6 months until December when they asked for picture evidence. I sent the pictures and when I check the status they received the evidence which is my pictures. Now this is my 7th months. Is this normal? And my kids 10 years and 15 years who are included in my case do not have SSN. What can I do?

    Reply
    • Renewals are often taking 7 months, and if you had to submit evidence, that may cause some additional delay. Hopefully, you will get the new card soon. As for your children, if they are dependents in the case, they can also file for EADs, and the new form (I-765, available at http://www.uscis.gov). allows them to apply for an SSN at the same time as they apply for an EAD. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  9. Dear people I would highly appreciate if someone can answer my question.

    I have a pending asylum case and on January 20, 2018 it will be 157 days since I filled my application. I applied for asylum in F1 status while I already had my OPT employment card valid until February 12, 2018. When I apply for EAD card based on asylum case, do I apply as a first time applier or as a renewed, since I already have a work authorization based on F1?

    Also, is it ok to apply for it while I still have valid opt work permit. If I apply on January, 20 I assume my opt based work permit will expire until they process my asylum based work permit . Thank you. Hope somebody can reply to me.

    Reply
    • If you are applying under a new category, it is a new card, not a renewal. However, you need to indicate on the form that you already had an EAD under a different category. You can apply even if you still have the old EAD, and a new application can take several months, so it is better to apply sooner to minimize the gap in employment eligibility. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  10. Hi

    I have an asylum pending application for one and an half year now. I frist come alone,my family join me
    They are depend on my asylum application. What documents do i need to file for them to get the fingerprints appointment and the work permit too?

    Thank you

    Reply
    • If your family is in the US and you want to add them to your case, you can (for spouse and minor, unmarried children). If you contact the asylum office (email or in-person is best), they should be able to tell you how to add a family member to your case. You can find their contact info if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Thank you for your respond

        They are already in my asylum application. They are my children,17years old and 19 years olds
        Am asking if that will be possible for them to have a fingerprint appointment and to get a work permit as dependent on my asylum application.
        If yes, what is the process?

        Reply
        • If they are dependents in your case, they can get a work permit on the same schedule as you. They must file form I-765, available at http://www.uscis.gov, just like you did. The instructions describe what they need to include with the form. Take care, Jason

          Reply
  11. Lost my work permit.Filled for another which I received a receipt on may 31st.Have called the service center more than 15 times.So I called today and I was told my paper work has been sent to the petition center for printing.I should call after 1 week for them to give me the reference number.

    Reply
    • There are many delays with work permits, but hopefully you will receive it soon. Happy New Year, Jason

      Reply
  12. Hello there,
    I am a US Citizen. My husband has an Asylum case pending. He first came to the United States in 2014 asking for Asylum. I met him in July 2016 and we got married May 2017. His court date is set for September 2019. I want to submit the I130 and the adjustment of status i485 simultaneously should I also file an i765 along with the other forms. His EAD was just renewed for an additonal 2 years. It took 6 months to receive his EAD. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Assuming he is eligible to get the green card based on marriage, it is normally better to file the I-130 and once that is approved, try to dismiss the court case and then file the I-485. Depending on many factors, this may or may not be the best path for you. I highly recommend you talk to a lawyer to get you through the procedure, as it is constantly changing and it is better to get it done correctly and get the GC than to make an error and potentially cause much greater problems and expense. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Jason, Thank you for the quick response! I will do as advised.

        Reply
  13. Good morning mate!!
    How was Christmas?
    I have a question, when will my EAD arrive, I will have to go somewhere to do Social Security and what other documents do I have to take? Thank you!!
    Have a great new year !!!

    Reply
    • These days, the I-765 form asks whether you want a social security card, and they send it to you around the same time you get the EAD. If you do not get the SS card, you can contact the social security office and inquire about that. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  14. Hello Jason firstly thanks for your great help to people in here. I apllied EAD renewal and i got receipt 176 days ago. When i check case status says “case was received” so after 4 days my driver license and EAD will be expire. I called USCIS and request 3 times during this period. But still nothing changed. What should i do? Thanks

    Reply
    • I am not sure what else to do, especially since things are slow now with the holidays. You can try to make an Info Pass at http://www.uscis.gov and go in person to ask. I doubt that will help much, but maybe. Also, you can try the USCIS Ombudsman – a link is at right, but they are not so fast either. You should get the new EAD soon – most people have it before 7 months. Good luck, Jason

      Reply
  15. Hi Boss
    I have applied for EAD renewal under asylum pending since 5 months, my first EAD will expire soon, can I continue my job or I have to quit till I get the new EAD.

    Thanks

    Reply
    • When you file to renew, the old EAD is automatically extended by 6 months (as discussed above). If that period of time expires, technically you are not allowed to work, but hopefully, you will get the new EAD before that happens. You can call USCIS to inquire you can find the number at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  16. I’m asylum applicant and has my vaild permit currently. It’s going to expire when it will be 150 days after submitting the application. Is there a way to fasten the process of getting renewed ead? I read some people wait months before the renewal. How can they live with no job )): I don’t want to lose my current job 😔

    Reply
    • As discussed above, when you file for the new EAD, the old EAD is automatically extended for 6 months. Also, you can file up to 180 days before the old EAD expires. If you file then, you should have the new EAD and you should not have any gaps in employment. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • the permit will be automatically extended for 6 months even if the work permit category is C03B? Thank you

        Reply
        • Sorry, I an not sure I understand the question, Jason

          Reply
          • sorry for the confusion. My question is: My current work permit is the one for students (F1 VISA) and it is valid for one year. No extension at all. If I applied for a new permit (since I’m an asylum applicant) will I GET EXTENSION ON MY CURRENT PERMIT until I get the asylum permit?

            Thank you very much and happy NEW YEAR (:

          • The automatic extension only applies if you are renewing an EAD in the same category, so you will not get that, as you will switch from an F-1 EAD to an asylum-pending EAD. Anticipating that, it is a good idea to file for the new (asylum pending) EAD at least 6 months before the old EAD expires, as there are delays producing EADs and you want to avoid a gap in employment eligibility, if possible. Happy New Year, Jason

  17. Validation Error(s)
    You must correct the following error(s) before proceeding:
    You are attempting to add a receipt number that does not exist in My Case Status. Please check your receipt number and try again….
    This is the message that appears when I type the receipt number of the EAD request, why can not I track the progress through the site? It’s been 3 weeks since I received the immigration notification that my work request was received. Thank you friend!!

    Reply
    • I do not know – you can call USCIS to ask about this. The phone number can be found at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
    • Hey Andre Silva same problem for me too. Did you get your work permit plz reply

      Reply
      • Not yet, I was late in my process all because I had not sent a photograph and copy of the passport.

        Reply
      • Hello everybody,

        I applied for my first EAd on December 16, 2017.

        I recieved a confirmation letter on January the 12, 2018. However, my husband shreded some of the paper abd lost it with them. I called USCIS number to get my tracking number which i can watch online about any further updates. The guy gave me the tracking number but it does not work.

        I am in kentucky so I applied through dallas taxes.

        Thanks,
        Sana

        Reply
        • It is probably more trouble than it is worth to try to find that number. When you get your next mailing from them, it should have the numbers you need (though the next mailing may be the EAD itself in a few months). Take care, Jason

          Reply
  18. Hello I just applied for asylum… Does anyone have any tips in seeking a work in the time being?

    Reply
    • Hello Jason,
      Thanks for all the time , really appreciate all your effort. I got a quick question to ask, we applied for political asylum and we have done our fingerprint. My question what do we call our current immigration status is? Hope to hear from you.

      Reply
      • I think there is no official name, as you do not technically have immigration status. You are allowed to stay here while your case is pending, though. I call that status “asylum pending”, but that is more descriptive than official. Take care, Jason

        Reply
    • You have to wait 150 days from the date the application was received, and then you can apply for your work permit (form I-765, available at http://www.uscis.gov). If you work before then, it is not legal, and it could have some immigration consequences, but it would not affect your eligibility for asylum. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  19. Hello Guys.
    I went to interview in 2014.
    They told me that I’ll get answer within 2 weeks.
    And it’s been over 3 years.
    No answer nothing. I went to local office to ask about my case they told me that it’s still pending and I have to wait.
    What do you guys think about it.
    Taking such a long time.
    Did any body experience something like this?
    3 years after asylum interview and no answer 🙂
    Thank you

    Reply
    • We have seen some cases like this – sometimes it is due to an unknown reason (like security background checks); other times, it is easier to know (see a post I did on October 20, 2015). If the asylum office is not helping, you can contact the USCIS Ombudsman office – a link is at right. If that does not work, you might consider a mandamus lawsuit. Talk to a lawyer about that. Good luck, Jason

      Reply
  20. How are you Jason

    When can I received schedule of interview as asylum applicant?

    Reply
    • The only source for that is the Asylum Office Scheduling Bulletin – a link for that is at right. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  21. hi i was been released from detention some weeks back on bond and right now i dont know how to carry on with activities without any document because i have no document

    Reply
    • Talk to a lawyer and get some help – Depending on the case, you may be able to get a work permit or a state ID, or maybe a new passport from your country. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  22. Hello Mr Jason,
    I am a pending asylum applicant which will later in this month apply for EAD, my question is can i apply EAD card for my wife who which to work as well and my child who need to get SSN? They are both dependent under my application. Thanks

    Reply
    • If they are dependents on your case, they can file for their EAD at the same time as you. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  23. Hi Jason i wanna i ask because my asylum still pending after passing to interview and last week I’ve received a new EAD card category A05. I’ve tried to call san Francisco asylum off ice but nobody is responded what should I do?

    Reply
    • Try emailing them – sometimes it works better. You can find their email address if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Hi Jason just to let you know today i receive the approval asylum notice with a new I94. Thanks

        Reply
        • Congrats Krys,
          What year did you file in for the asylum application?
          Dennis

          Reply
          • Thanks. That was in November 2012. I passed the first interview on March 8th 2017 and the second one was on May 19th 2017.

        • what! It took such a long time? What happened? Congratulations again.
          Dennis

          Reply
          • Yeah waiting for 5 years it’s not easy. But thank God I’m approved.

        • Which state ?

          Reply
          • Washington State

        • A big congratulations to you Krys again. Can we keep in touch. My email is Dennisowen100@yahoo.com
          I’ll be glad to hear from you.
          Dennis

          Reply
        • Congratulations! Welcome to the United States, and thank you for sharing good news, Jason

          Reply
          • Thanks…

  24. Hi Jason i wanna i ask because my asylum still pending after passing to interview and last week I’ve received a new EAD card category A05. What does it mean?

    Reply
    • That is the category for asylum approved. Hopefully, it is a good sign, but you will have to wait and see. If you want, you can contact the asylum office and ask about this, but I would not do that unless you have waited at least a month since your interview. You can find the asylum office contact info if you follow the link at right called Asylum Office Locator. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  25. Is there anyone who get EAD within 6 month? Or is it taking longer than this too ? I am waiting already four month.Thanks.

    Reply
    • First time EADs are a usually a bit faster, but we are definitely seeing renewals taking 6 months and sometimes a bit more. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  26. Hey Jason,
    This is my 1st EAD, I received the receipt notice 2 weeks ago, and when I checked my case status online, it says follow the steps in the receipt notice but nothing mentioned in this notice to follow.
    What is my next step? should I do any more Biometrics?

    Reply
    • Probably you will not have biometrics and the only thing to do is wait for the card, which could take several months. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Thank you Jason,, hopefully it doesn’t!

        Reply
  27. Hello Jason
    I am asylum pending. i applied for ead and they gave me the card but there was an error on my last name. i have returned it to correct and they send me the new card but i lost it. finally applied for replacement with the fee 410.00 on september 22, 2017
    receipt notice september 26, 2017
    but still now, i didn’t get any thing. when i check on my check status, it said that “the case status doesnot recognize your case number”.
    please help me what i am going to do next. it is almost one /1/ year after i applying for ead card.
    kind regard,

    Reply
    • You cannot check your asylum status on-line, but you should be able to check your EAD application status (using the EAD receipt). If not, you can call USCIS. The phone number can be found at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  28. Is there any way to ask for urgency in my asylum application, given that I have already applied for asylum? . At the desk that I will be interviewed, it is taking 3 years to call the interview.

    Reply
    • I did a post about that on March 30, 2017 – maybe that would help. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  29. Good Morning!! Is there a site that I can monitor the progress of the EAD request? Thank you

    Reply
  30. I passed the second asylum interview but I didn’t receive the approval letter yet. And today they mailed me a new EAD card with category A05 and the receipt number started by ZSF… What I wanna know is how come they changed my category which was C08 and the receipt number was LIN and now it changed.

    Reply
    • I think A05 is for approved cases, so hopefully this is a good sign. Contact your local asylum office and ask them. You can find their contact info if you follow the link at right called asylum office locator. Good luck, Jason

      Reply
    • Hello Jason, thank you so much for all of your support and helping. I went to Chicago yesterday and asked for rescheduling my interview because I missed the first one due to changing address. That was so helpful. My question is if a lawyer is in the file, is she supposed to be present in the interview and if it’s necessary what If I don’t want her in the interview? Is it normal to have 2 interviews ? Somebody mentioned here for their second one, I didn’t know that there’s two interviews? And how long does it take to have the second one?
      Thank you so much

      Reply
      • Whether the lawyer attends is your decision (and the lawyer’s), so if you do not want her there, she does not have to be there. Or you can choose a different lawyer. That is up to you. Most people have one interview, but two interviews is not so uncommon – we see it in maybe 10% of cases. There are all sorts of reasons for that – sometimes, they have more questions; other times, the security check reveals new information, or the officer quit and so they need to re-do the interview. You should prepare as you did for the first interview. As for the timing, each case is different, so I have seen second interviews after a week or two, or sometimes after a year. Take care, Jason

        Reply
        • God bless you, and thank you so much.

          Reply
  31. Hello,

    After sending I765 which includes the request for SSN, when will I be able to recive Social Security Card? Can I receive it before EAD?

    Reply
    • I think you will receive both at about the same time, but you need both to work lawfully. Also, please note that EADs are moving slowly and even first time EADs can take 4+ months. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  32. Hello Mr. Dzubow,
    I would like to ask you if it’s gonna be problem for my spouse, dependent listed in my asylum application, to get EAD, because he has three months more presence then the 1 year rule for eligibility???
    Thano you in advance

    Reply
    • I do not think that will affect eligibility for the EAD if he is a dependent on your asylum case. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Hello Jason, i applied for my ead a month ago and my case just changed to card in production, how long is it going to take for me to receive the card?

        Reply
        • That, I don’t know. I feel like it should only be a month or so, but I don’t really keep track of such things very closely. Let us know when you get the card, as that may help others. Thank you, Jason

          Reply
          • Hello Jason
            My timeline
            Applied for ead on 11/03/2017
            Case was received 11/07/2017
            Card mailed to me on 12/13/2017
            And I received it 12/16/2017

          • That is fast. Was this a first EAD? What state do you live in? Thank you, Jason

  33. Hello jason , applied for asylum in July 2017 , i have received Receipt number & Biometric Notice with in a week .
    after Biometric i changed my address as Po Box , since July i am not receiving any mails to my PO box ,
    asylum Applicant can use Po box for ??
    i am going to file I-765 i can use Po box number ??

    Thanks,

    Reply
    • You can use a PO box for a mailing address, but you need to also give them a physical address where you live (at least on the form I-589). I think you should probably be ok to use a PO box for the I-765, but check the instructions to be sure, as I have never done that for a client. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  34. Good afternoon!! I need to pay some fee to apply the EAD for the first time? Thanks!

    Reply
    • If you are applying for a first EAD based on asylum pending, there is no fee. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  35. Hello Jason,
    I filed an application for asylum in Sept 2017. When will I be eligible to apply for an EAD? I reside in Maryland with my 3 children. Any help and/or advice would be greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • Your asylum receipt indicates when the application for asylum was received. You can apply 150 days after the date on the receipt. Use form I-765, available at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Hello Mr Jason
        I called uscis office about my EAD. They said that they are checking my case individually. Call back after 60 days if you don’t receive anything. That’s what they said. Do you think it will move better after this? Is there anyone who got good news after phone call to uscis office?

        Thanks!

        Reply
        • Hopefully, it will get processed, but lots of people are seeing delays with EADs. If you don’t have the card in 60 days, maybe you can make an Info Pass appointment to ask USCIS in person. Sometimes, that is more helpful than a call. You can make the appointment at http://www.uscis.gov. Good luck, Jason

          Reply
          • Thanks Mr Jason. Will be in touth.

  36. Hello!! God bless you richly! I have a question, I’m from Maryland and I applied for asylum, 150 days after I got the immigration receipt, what immigration office should I send to the application form? Do I need to send a copy of my receipt with the form? Thank you

    Reply
    • I think you are referring to the work permit? Use form I-765, available at http://www.uscis.gov. You have to read the instructions to determine the address and the documents needed, but you do need to include a copy of your asylum receipt and biometric notice. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  37. Hi Jason, hope you are doing well..
    I am Asylum seeker and regular reader of this blog… just want to share my time line for initial EAD.. it might help other followers..
    Applied for EAD with my wife and son : 18 September 2017
    Receipt received : 23 September
    Approval notice reced: 21 October 2017
    EAD in hand : 27 October 2017 with 2 year valdity
    OFFICE : Nebraska

    Reply
    • That was fast. Thank you for sharing, Jason

      Reply
      • Thanks Jason…
        One question …
        Now I am going to apply for SSN, what documents they will ask for? Any idea or suggestions? We have our home country passport, which is expired, is it ok?

        Reply
        • Hi Jason,

          Thank you for your continuous support. I had asked this question before but I am a little confused. Looking through USCIS website where to file EAD application I am only being able to find this address and can’t find anything that says residents of this state should file here.

          (c)(8)Asylum applicant
          USCIS Dallas Lockbox
          For U.S. Postal Service (USPS):
          USCIS
          Attn: I-765
          P.O. Box 650888
          Dallas, TX 75265-0888
          For FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries:
          USCIS
          Attn: I-765
          2501 S. State Hwy. 121 Business
          Suite 400
          Lewisville, TX 75067

          I live in AL and my current status is asylum applicant. Do I send the application to an address written above? Please help.

          Thanks,

          Jay

          Reply
          • I can’t give specific advice like this, as I do not know the case. But if you are filing under c-08, you need to look at the address for that category and send the I-765 there. Take care, Jason

        • You will have to check the SS website, but I think the passport, work permit, and asylum receipts are enough. Take care, Jason

          Reply
  38. Please do anyone have an idea of the uscis office that processes ead application for pending asylum applicants for someone who resides in Houston Texas?
    Thanks.

    Reply
  39. Hi Jason
    I applied for EAD back in 14 April 2017 , its already 202 days
    nothing happen. What is your advise?
    I applied to Nebraska office

    Reply
    • Call USCIS or go in-person to ask. You can find the phone number of make an Info Pass appointment at http://www.uscis.gov. You might also contact the USCIS Ombudsman – a link is at right. People are facing very long EAD renewal delays, but 202 days seems particularly long. You should contact them and see if they can help. Good luck, Jason

      Reply
    • I think they are not considering April as a month, I am still waiting. they received my file on April 13. I put 2 inquiries, received the same response that my file is in the line, and I did go in person there, got no answer. I am completely disappointed ?. Please share your update if you get an answer.
      Thank you so much,

      Reply
    • Hey Saleem,
      My processing office too was Nebraska. The office received my application on April 28th. And a week ago I received my EAD. As I see in USCIS website Nebraska office is still working on applications received in April for c(8) category so you might receive yours soon.
      As far as my case wad concern, I called USCIS twice andh asked help from my local congressman without any help. Then finally I wrote to DHS explaining everything I detail and within two weeks I received my EAD.

      Reply
  40. My EAD timeline

    Submitted i-765 on 9/12
    Receipt notice to lawyer 9/22
    notice was returned to uscis because the post office could not deliver it 10/02
    Called USCIS on 10/05 to request for new notice
    Card approved for production on 10/20
    Card mailed to me on 10/24
    EAD card received on 10/27

    It took a total of 45 days.

    I hope this gives someone Hope
    Thank you Jason for your support

    Reply
    • Thank you – It might help to know what state you are in, If you don’t mind sharing that. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • I am in Ohio.

        Thank you

        Reply
  41. Hi Jason, Iapplied for EAD for myself, wife and 2 kids and we got an email of acceptance from USCIS. However, we are yet to receive the physical copy of the notice. I tracked the applications online with the receipt numbers provided. While 2 of the applications displayed “card has been mailed”, 1 of the application displayed “card is being produced” while 1 displayed ” notice was returned to USCIS because post office couldnt deliver to my address” My question therefore is since we didn’t receive the physical notices, I hope the card will be delivered to my address? Or is there anything you suggest I do proactively especially considering the information displayed that the post office could not be delivered? Thank you

    Reply
    • I am not sure the problem, but you should have received the paper receipt. If not, your address may be wrong. Double check the address you gave them. If needed, you can change your address using form AR-11, available at http://www.uscis.gov. You may want to call USCIS to ask about this. You can find their number at http://www.uscis.gov. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Thank you Jason for your prompt response. I have double checked the address and found out that my apartment number was wrong. I have submitted firm AR-11 to change the address. But my concern is that what happens to the already mailed cards? Surely USPS will return them to USCIS, but is there a chance USCIS will send them back to my correct address again? Or do i need to cintact them to do that? Thanks

        Reply
        • I would call USCIS to ask – you can find the phone number at http://www.uscis.gov. Maybe there is something they can do to assist. Also, could you ask the person in that apartment number to look out for the cards? (Though normally, the post office would not deliver them if the name and address do not match, you never know). Hopefully, USCIS will re-send them with the new address, but call to check. Take care, Jason

          Reply
          • Hello Jason, what documents do I send with my i-765 when applying for the first time?

          • Sorry, I cannot give specific advice about applications, as I do not know your case. The instruction explain what to send, and if you are missing something, USCIS will send you a notice and tell you what they need. It is no big deal and causes minimal delay. Take care, Jason

          • Thank you Jason, EAD Card has been received!!!
            My timeline:
            Submitted I-765 on October 2
            Acceptance email received on October 5
            Card was ordered on October 24
            Card was mailed to me on October 26
            Card delivered by USPS on October 31.

            I am in Texas.
            I hope those awaiting theirs can find this useful.

          • Hello, is it acceptance mail or email?

          • I received an ‘acceptance’ email also notifying me of my receipt number

          • The ead form doesn’t have an option for email, I don’t think USCIS would contact you via email

          • Well, I received an email for each member of my family I applied for.

          • That was fast – it is amazing how some parts of the US are so fast and other parts are so slow. Take care, Jason

          • Hello Jason, they keep talking about email but there’s no option on the i-765 form that requires email address

          • Use firm G-1145, available at http://www.uscis.gov, and USCIS will send you an email about your application. Take care, Jason

          • Hello Jason, do I send the G-1145 together with my i-765?

          • Yes, but maybe it is possible to submit it later, I am not sure – check the instructions. Take care, Jason

  42. Hello Jason,
    Thank you so much for helping us.
    It’s been 201 days the uscis received my application for renewal my EDA. I called several times and I put 2 enquirers on my application. Nothing changed.
    Is it normal for renewal?? I am frustrated and I am losing a great job opportunity.
    What is your suggestion??
    Thank you again.

    Reply
    • We are seeing long delays, but that is really long. I suggest you make an Info Pass appointment at http://www.uscis.gov and go in person. Sometimes that works better than calling on the phone. Also, you can contact the USCIS Ombudsman – a link is at right. They can sometimes help with delayed cases. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • Thank you so much Jason, I made an appointment, I will let you know what happened at the end of the week.

        Reply
        • Hello again dear Jason,
          I went to the immigration office and they told me they are not responsible for asylum and their EAD’s.
          So I really don’t know what to do.
          Thank you so much for your help.

          Reply
          • The asylum offices are responsible for asylum cases, and the USCIS offices are responsible for work permits. Make sure you go to the correct place depending on the type of inquiry you are making. Take care, Jason

          • Hello Jason, are pending asylum applicants required to go fingerprinting when they apply for ead ?

          • I believe USCIS is no longer fingerprinting asylum-pending EAD applicants. Take care, Jason

      • Hello Mr Jason. I live in Illinois. But my case is in Texas. If I want to make an info pass appointment, should I go to Texas office or I can go to office in Illinois close to me?
        Thanks. Sam

        Reply
        • Normally, you go to your local office. Take care, Jason

          Reply
          • Thank you Mr Jason,

      • Hi Jason,

        I posted this query earlier, but I guess I couldn’t get a reply.

        Please advise the average lead time these days for interview from the date of filing. I applied from NY.

        Cordially,

        Atif.

        P.S. Many thanks for selfless work.

        Reply
        • You have to check the Asylum Office Scheduling Bulletin – a link is at right. Take care, Jason

          Reply
    • Hi El,
      I recommend you to contact your local congressman office directly. I had the same exact case like you. I called the USCIS office multiple times and I put 3 urgent inquiries without any responses. Once I contacted my congressman office, my case status in the uscis website changed to “card is being processed”. Good luck!

      Reply
    • Hi El,
      I recommend you to contact your local congressman office directly. I had the same exact case like you. I called the USCIS office multiple times and I put 3 urgent inquiries without any responses. Once I contacted my congressman office, my case status in the uscis website changed to “card is being processed”. Good luck!

      Reply
  43. Here is my timeline it could be helpful for some fellas

    14 august uscis got my ead request notice
    13 october my card was processed
    17 october my card was mailed to. e
    20 october I got my card around 6 pm
    thank you jason for helps and responds

    Reply
    • Congrats Steve! I’ ve got question if it is ok. My wife and I asylum applicants , but my wife’s case is major. She has got her EAD within 2 month. I’m still waiting. My question is Are you asylum applicant or you added to your spouse? I think they are working only with major asylum applications cases in this time…

      Reply
      • I m single sam office was texas good luck

        Reply
      • In our office we have not seen differences in waiting times between principal asylum applicants and dependents, but the wait times are pretty unpredictable. So hopefully, you will get your EAD soon. Take care, Jason

        Reply
    • Thank you for sharing this. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  44. Dear Jason,

    Thanks for the information on this page. Please i want to know the website where i can watch and track my asylum status as an applicant and i have just sent in my EAD application last Thursday which was received on Monday.

    Please treat a top urgent.

    Regards,

    Emmanuel

    Reply
  45. Dear Mr. Dzubow,

    Many thanks for your kind assistance on asylum matters. I have couple of questions:
    1) Am I allowed to file an I-765 form (EAD) for my children that are in age of 8, 6 and 2?
    2) Where do I have to send completed I-765 form? I couldn’t really locate which center does it have to be sent for processing?
    Thank you for your help, Jay

    Reply
    • 1 – You can file for an EAD for them if they are dependents on your asylum application (you submitted an extra page 9 of the I-589 for each child with his/her photo). 2 – I cannot tell you as I do not know your case – you need to look on the I-765 page for direct filing addresses – https://www.uscis.gov/i-765-addresses. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  46. Hi Jason,
    Hope you are doing well. MY SECOND I-765 RENEWAL APPLICATION is being pending for almost 5 months now with no update. I contacted the USCIS office three times with no response. I am so worried and I do not know what should I do? Thanks!

    Reply
    • I am waiting since April 13 , more than 6 months. And I put 2 inquiries. Not worth it.
      We should be patient
      And trust God, although it’s really hard to be waiting for several things.

      Reply
    • Many renewals are delayed, and we are seeing people wait 4 or 5 months or more. If you received the receipt, you should get the new card. You can make an Info Pass appointment at http://www.uscis.gov and go in person to ask about the card. Sometimes that works better than calling. Also, you could inquire with the USCIS Ombudsman (a link is at right). They can sometimes help with delayed cases. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  47. Hi jason i check my uscis status says my card being produced since 13 october , how many days should i wait more for getting ead thank you

    Reply
    • When did you apply for it?

      Reply
      • 4 agust

        Reply
    • Wow that’s great! My wife received EAD around 10 days after “card being produced”. You should get soon.

      Reply
    • which state? Uscis office?

      Reply
      • nyc texas office

        Reply
    • Sometimes it takes a couple weeks, but you should have it soon. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • thank you jason

        Reply
  48. Hi Jason. My husband and me both apply EAD.my husband case major.we both apply EAD same day .we check uscis status online my husband EAD approved my EAD status case was recived. Sir both case same why did different status. We did get revive EAD same day or not pls tel me

    Reply
    • We see EADs take 4 or 5 months in most cases, and two EADs filed on the same day are not necessarily processed in the same time frame. Unless your EAD is very delayed (and it is too soon to know, I think), I think you should not worry about this. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  49. Hi Jason. My husband and me both apply EAD.my husband case major.we both apply EAD same day .we check uscis status online my husband EAD approved my EAD status was revived. Sir both case same why did different status. We did get revive EAD same day or not pls tel me

    Reply
    • We see EADs take 4 or 5 months in most cases, and two EADs filed on the same day are not necessarily processed in the same time frame. Unless your EAD is very delayed (and it is too soon to know, I think), I think you should not worry about this. Take care, Jason

      Reply
  50. hi jason, actually iam an asylum seeker i got my ead 2 weeks ago and at the same time im married to a LPR wife and she petitioned me in 2016 and yesteday NVC just sent me a second email saying that they are busy processing my immigrant visa case,they gave me steps to follow and ask me to pay the fees ,in the letter they includes NVC case number and Invoice ID Number therefore this is my concern : NVC thinking I am outside USA and they will schedule an interview at the us consulate embassy back in my country ; so my questions is that can i do the Adjustment of status while inside usa ??? can i combine both case asylum and I-130 ? help me with an advice what can i do ?? can i email them saying that I am inside USA and I can’t file Ds-260 and can’t pay fees outside usa becasue Iam already inside USA . kind regards

    Reply
    • If your wife were a US citizen, you probably could adjust status and get the GC. But unless you are here lawfully on a visa (other than asylum pending), you probably have to leave the US to get your green card, and that may or may not be possible depending on your case. I recommend you talk to a lawyer to decide on the best approach. Take care, Jason

      Reply
      • hi jason,
        thank you for your advice but i entered us with a b1b2 but right now is exired ,is that not mean iam lawfull ??? right now i dont have a lawyer can i hire you for this combine cases because i see you are the best ??

        kind regrads

        Reply
        • If you filed for asylum, you are lawfully here, but you have no immigration status for purposes of changing status. As for me, if you want to set a consultation, you can email me at Jdzubow@DzubowLaw.com. Take care, Jason

          Reply

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